Elite offensive and defensive line talent from multiple states traveled to Michigan to compete in a high-level national showdown that featured powerhouse organizations including:
- 210th
- OL Hawgs
- Starts Up Front Shockers
- A nationally traveling team from Tennessee
From the opening whistle, the atmosphere was intense, physical, and highly competitive as trench athletes battled throughout the day for championships, rankings, and national recognition.
The Starts Up Front National & Global Recruiting Board was in attendance throughout the tournament evaluating talent, capturing elite trench battles, and documenting some of the top offensive and defensive linemen from across the country.
SUF Shockers Storm Michigan
The Starts Up Front Shockers once again made a major statement on the national stage.
Traveling into hostile territory on April 26, 2026, the Shockers showcased discipline, toughness, technique, and elite trench play throughout the entire event. What took place in Michigan was bigger than football — it was another sign that Starts Up Front continues evolving into one of the fastest-rising trench ecosystems in the nation.
The high school division was highlighted by a dominant performance from Caleb Crosby, who consistently controlled the line of scrimmage with power, footwork, and relentless effort. Crosby emerged as one of the most impressive trench athletes at the entire event and further elevated his recruiting profile with his performance.
The Shockers offensive line also received major contributions from:
- Isiah Richardson
- Larome Cotton
- DeAndre Sweezer
Together, the group helped power the Shockers deep into bracket play while establishing themselves as one of the most physical offensive line units at the tournament.
Defensive Front Controls the
Led by Brandon Brown, Jeremiah Smith,Trenches and Federal Hooks, the Shockers defensive front brought relentless pressure and disruptive trench play throughout the event. Their physicality, discipline, and effort helped the team advance to the quarterfinals while proving the Shockers can compete with some of the best trench talent nationally
“The training of Starts Up Front really showed its presence. These young men are competing at a level that demands national attention.”
— Dr. Enoch Smith Sr.
Youth Shockers Capture Another Championship
While the high school division made noise, the SUF Shockers Youth Team stole the spotlight by capturing their second championship in just two months.
The championship came down to one final rep.
7th-grade standout Ben Amato stepped onto the field during a head-to-head tiebreaker and delivered a textbook defensive rep to secure the championship victory for the Shockers. The moment further solidified Amato as one of the top young trench prospects emerging nationally.
The youth squad also received standout performances from:
- Antwan Weathers
- Jayden Lopez
Both athletes brought energy, toughness, leadership, and playmaking ability throughout the tournament as the Shockers continued building a rising youth dynasty in the trenches.
Championship Battle to Remember
When the dust finally settled, Sound Mind Sound Body walked away with the championship after defeating 210th in a title matchup that quickly became one of the most memorable battles of the event.
The championship game showcased elite physicality, trench technique, toughness, and competitive fire from both programs, proving why the Motown Showdown is already becoming a must-attend national event for offensive and defensive linemen.
Coach Enoch Smith’s Vision Becoming Reality
What began as a vision to create a national platform specifically for offensive and defensive linemen is rapidly evolving into one of the fastest-growing trench ecosystems in football.
Under the leadership of Dr. Enoch Smith Sr., Starts Up Front continues expanding nationally through:
- Elite camps
- Verified evaluations
- Rankings
- Exposure opportunities
- Recruiting coverage
- National competition
“Watching these young men take their game to another level is everything Starts Up Front is built for. This is just the beginning.”
— Dr. Enoch Smith Sr.
What’s Next
The road continues for the Shockers and the Starts Up Front National & Global Recruiting Board.
The organization now heads to California on May 3, 2026, before returning home to Chicago for the Midwest Showcase Showdown on May 16, 2026 at 1434 S. Loomis, Chicago, IL.
The Midwest Showcase Showdown will feature:
- National Rankings
- Verified Measurables
- OL/DL Competition
- College Exposure Opportunities
- Recruiting Evaluations
Rising 8th–12th grade athletes will have the opportunity to compete against some of the top trench talent in the region while earning exposure through the Starts Up Front National & Global Recruiting Board platform.
Register Today:
www.startsupfrontrecruitingboard.com
“It All Starts Up Front.”